The National Audit Office has identified three three ministries that have not submitted budget performance reports, despite official requests, which raises concerns regarding the transparency and oversight of public funds.
The NAO, in its audit of government accounts for the fiscal year concluding on December 31, 2024, reported that the Ministries of Basic and Secondary Education, Health, and Agriculture failed to submit the required documents promptly for review.
The auditors noted that the absence of reports hindered their ability to determine whether the ministries complied with spending regulations or met their budgetary goals.
“This fundamentally undermines the purpose of the audit, leaving stakeholders with no assurance that funds were used for their intended purpose,” the report stated.
The NAO advised the government to implement a formal mechanism, incorporating explicit penalties, to guarantee compliance in upcoming audit cycles. The auditors cautioned that without comprehensive reporting, they are unable to verify the effective use of taxpayer funds.
The government management stated in its written response that the performance reports for the Education and Agriculture ministries have been included in an appendix. The auditors stated that only the document from the Health Ministry had been received and reviewed, while the other two documents remained outstanding at the conclusion of the audit.
The audit revealed that the same three ministries did not submit annual work plans, which are essential for accountability. These plans detail departmental activities, timelines, responsible personnel, and budget allocations for the fiscal year.
Auditors indicated that, in the absence of work plans, they were unable to assess performance or ascertain the efficient use of public funds by ministries. The report advised that ministries offer formal justifications for the inability to produce the documents, pinpoint the underlying causes, and implement a rigorous annual schedule for work plan preparation.
Management indicated that the work plans for the Education and Health ministries have been included as attachments. The auditors acknowledged receipt solely from the Health Ministry, while the Agriculture plan was still pending at the conclusion of the management letter.
